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Kenyan President William Ruto has confirmed that blogger Albert Ojwang died while in police custody, contradicting earlier claims by the police. This case has sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over police brutality in the country.
Ojwang, 31, was arrested on Friday, June 7, in western Kenya’s Homa Bay County. He was accused of defaming the country’s deputy police chief on social media. After his arrest, he was transferred to the Nairobi Central Police Station. Two days later, on June 8, he was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead.
Initially, police claimed that Ojwang died after he “hit his head against a wall” inside his cell, suggesting suicide. However, this explanation was quickly challenged. A post-mortem examination, attended by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), revealed serious injuries. These included a head wound, neck compression, and soft tissue damage—injuries more consistent with physical assault than a fall or self-harm.
Pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia, who was part of the autopsy team, confirmed that the cause of death appeared to be assault. The IPOA has since named five police officers involved in Ojwang’s arrest and transfer. These officers are now under investigation.
During a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja admitted the original suicide claim was false and apologized for misleading the public.
“Based on IPOA’s report, it’s clear that he did not hit his head against the wall,” Kanja said.
The case has received wide attention from the public, human rights groups, and political figures. Outside the mortuary in Nairobi, where Ojwang’s body was examined, protests broke out. Many Kenyans expressed frustration and anger over ongoing police violence and lack of accountability.
President Ruto addressed the matter directly in a statement, calling Ojwang’s death “heartbreaking and unacceptable.” While urging the public to stay calm and avoid jumping to conclusions, he emphasized that the truth must come out and justice must be served.
“This tragic occurrence, at the hands of the police, is heartbreaking and unacceptable,” said Ruto. “As we mourn his passing, let us patiently but vigilantly follow the progress of the investigations.”
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also spoke to the Senate, assuring them that there would be no cover-up. He promised that anyone found responsible for Ojwang’s death would be held accountable.
“We are committed to ensuring that everyone who was involved in the crime is brought to justice quickly, and that there is no interference in the investigation,” Murkomen said.
Over the years, Kenya’s police have faced multiple accusations of using excessive force, carrying out extrajudicial killings, and making people disappear. President Ruto had previously promised to put an end to such abuses, but Ojwang’s death has cast doubt on those efforts.
Ojwang was known for writing about political and social issues, often criticizing government officials. His supporters say he was targeted for speaking out.
As the IPOA continues its investigation, many Kenyans are watching closely, hoping that this case will finally bring change to a police system long accused of acting with impunity.